Disgorged in February 2020, the latest rendition of Selosse's NV Extra-Brut Grand Cru Les Carelles is already showing brilliantly, unwinding in the glass with aromas of honeyed citrus fruit, dried apricot, fresh peach, orange oil, beeswax and toasted nuts. Full-bodied, broad and incisive, it is elegantly muscular and youthfully tightly wound, with a racy spine of acidity, chalky structuring extract and a long, mineral finish.

The NV Extra-Brut Grand Cru Les Carelles is gorgeous. Deep layers of ripe pears, dried apricots, spices, flowers, hazelnuts, pastry, smoke and honey are woven into a rich tapestry of inimitable class and elegance. This release of Les Carelles reveals tons of nuance and character, with less of the heaviness of last year’s version. Although the Carelles stands apart from Selosse’s wines from Avize, it is really the sprit of Selosse that comes through most loudly here rather than what might be called the essence of Mesnil character. Clean, mineral notes on the finish provide the clearest Mesnil signature. This is a gorgeous wine, especially if given some time in the glass. Disgorged April 13, 2011. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2015. Importer: The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484